IPR
Pronunciation: eye-pee-ar
Also written as: IPR — Interproximal Reduction
Interproximal Reduction; the controlled removal of small amounts of enamel from the contact surfaces between adjacent teeth to create space within the dental arch.
Full Definition
IPR (Interproximal Reduction) is a clinical technique in which a fine diamond strip, disc, or bur is used to remove 0.1–0.5 mm of enamel from the proximal surfaces of teeth. It is a key space-gaining measure in orthodontic treatment, particularly in clear aligner therapy and mild crowding cases where extraction is not warranted. Editors must reproduce the abbreviation as 'IPR' (all caps) and expand it on first use in formal reports. IPR should not be confused with 'stripping' in casual usage, as 'stripping' is considered an imprecise lay term that may alarm patients if used in correspondence.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first mention in patient-facing documents. Avoid 'stripping' in correspondence directed at patients or lay readers.
In Context
- "A total of 1.5 mm of IPR was planned across the lower anterior segment to resolve residual crowding." — Orthodontic treatment plan
- "The editor queried whether 'stripping' in the draft should be replaced with the preferred clinical term 'IPR'." — Editorial review of patient information leaflet